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The Saskatchewan Firearms Office (SFO) is reminding residents of important safety measures ahead of the upcoming hunting season, with a key message: a secure firearm is a safe firearm.
"A successful hunt starts with safety," said SFO Deputy Commissioner and Chief Firearms Officer Murray Cowan. "Respect your firearm, respect wildlife, and respect the environment. Hunting is not just about the harvest; it is about preserving the balance of nature and returning home safely."
The SFO emphasizes that firearm safety begins with proper transportation. Firearms should be unloaded, kept out of sight, and locked securely in a case or rendered inoperable with a trigger lock or cable, or by removing the bolt. They should also be stored separately from ammunition.
When leaving a firearm in a vehicle, never leave it unattended. If necessary, ensure it is concealed and leave it only briefly while the vehicle remains within eyesight.
While hunting, individuals must have a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) and a Hunting and Fishing Licence (HAL). Hunters are reminded to follow the safety training associated with these licences, including treating every firearm as if it is loaded, controlling the muzzle, knowing their target and what’s beyond it, being aware of surroundings, and obtaining permission to access private land.
The SFO continues to provide advanced firearms and safety training for Métis citizens in the province.
"Our partnership with Métis Nation Saskatchewan is built on trust, respect, and a shared vision for Saskatchewan’s heritage," said SFO Commissioner Robert Freberg. "Together, we honour traditional knowledge while empowering meaningful, long-lasting collaboration, demonstrating the power of unity and mutual respect in shaping a brighter future for the province."
An agreement signed last year outlines specific areas of collaboration, including guaranteed funding for a community educator within MN-S to educate members on firearm safety, storage, licensing, and hunting.
The SFO also reports positive results from the new Saskatchewan Ballistics Laboratory. Since it became operational, the lab has completed over 100 firearms examinations for police agencies across the province. It has helped link crime scenes in Saskatchewan to others across Canada and the U.S. Reduced wait times for forensic testing have also positively impacted prosecutions, as tests are now completed before initial court appearances, rather than months later as was previously the case.